There was a Navajo Blessing at Beech Brook Farm last Saturday. The purpose of a Horse Blessing Ceremony is to nullify the negative energy the horses carry. Although each ceremony is unique, the Horse Blessing Ceremony typically opens with the Navajo Creation Story of the horse and explains why the horse is so sacred to their culture. Stories are then told about the importance of connecting with nature, making time for family and loved ones, reevaluating our “needs” and embracing simplicity.

Those in attendance are then invited to gather greens from the horses’ environment to be mixed with the medicinal herbs collected by a Navajo Medicine Person. Hot coals are added to create a moist, fragrant smoke. This smudge, as it is referred to, is the medicine that is offered to the horses. As sacred songs are sung and the smudge is taken to the horses, the healing properties begin and energy work (think: reiki) is performed. Those in attendance bear witness to the negative and unhealthy energy leaving the horses’ bodies.

It was truly amazing. At one point when the Medicine Person chanted while facing each direction (East, West, North and South), all horses and donkeys started to whinny and prance. I got a chill down my spine.

Beech Brook encourages an offering to help support the ongoing ability to offer these blessings to others. We ask for a donation to Beech Brook Farm. Donations can be sent to 125 Fishtown Road, Mystic CT.